description
Eucalyptus is an evergreen tree of the Myrtaceae family that typically grow from 30 to 55 m (98 to 180 ft) tall. The bark sheds often, peeling in large strips. The broad juvenile leaves are borne in opposite pairs on square stems. They are about 6 to 15 cm long and covered with a blue-grey, waxy bloom. The mature leaves are narrow, sickle-shaped and dark shining green. They are arranged alternately on rounded stems and range from 15 to 35 cm in length. The buds are top-shaped, ribbed and warty and have a flattened operculum (cap on the flower bud) bearing a central knob. The cream-colored flowers are borne singly in the leaf axils and produce copious nectar that yields a strongly flavored honey. The fruits are woody and range from 1.5 to 2.5 cm in diameter. Numerous small seeds are shed through valves (numbering between 3 and 6 per fruit) which open on the top of the fruit. It produces roots throughout the soil profile, rooting several feet deep in some soils. They do not form taproots.

common names & nomenclature
The leaves are covered with a blue-grey, waxy bloom, which is the origin of the common name blue gum.

Also known as:
eucalyptus, blue gum, australian fever tree, tasmanian blue gum, southern blue gum

Eucalyptus globulus is native to Tasmania and southeastern Australia.

climate
Eucalyptus grows in sunny hilly country or moist valleys, or damp marshy areas, doesn’t grow well in shade.

soil
Eucalyptus prefers a moderately fertile well-drained soil.

growing
Sow seeds in February or March in a sunny greenhouse. Species that come from high altitudes appreciate 6 - 8 weeks cold stratification at 2°C. Pot up the seedlings into individual pots as soon as the second set of seed leaves has developed, if left longer than this they might not move well. Plant out into their permanent locations in early summer and give them some protection from the cold in their first winter. The seed can also be sown in June, the young trees being planted in their final locations in late spring of the following year.

harvesting
Eucalyptus leaves may be harvested anytime during the growing season, just be careful not to harvest more than half of the plant’s leaf supply at one time. Leaves are then dried and cut into pieces for later use.

preserving
Store dried leaf pieces in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.